The Greater Chennai Corporation (GCC) has announced plans to demolish and reconstruct 12 bridges in Virugambakkam. This move is aimed at addressing long-standing issues related to the free flow of water in the Virugambakkam canal, which has been hampered by the current bridge structures.A survey will be conducted to identify encroachments along the canal, and connecting points will be constructed to facilitate proper water movement. For years, the Virugambakkam canal has been choked with silt and garbage, leading to significant drainage issues. Previously maintained by the Water Resources Department (WRD), the canal runs from Bhuvaneswar Nagar to the Cooum River near Nelson Manickam Road.
In addition to reconstructing the bridges, GCC plans to build divert points to enable efficient water flow from residential areas into the canal. To prevent garbage dumping and further pollution of the water body, a compound wall will be constructed along the canal’s stretch.
These measures are expected to alleviate flooding in several areas, including Annai Satya Nagar, Chinmaya Nagar, MMDA Colony, and Arumbakkam, during heavy rains. The initiative underscores GCC’s commitment to improving urban infrastructure and addressing waterlogging issues in Chennai.
Residents are optimistic that these efforts will bring a much-needed solution to the long-standing problems associated with the Virugambakkam canal.